When I first got my hands on Circling from Above, the latest offering from Styx, I’ll admit I was a tad skeptical. As a longtime fan, I’ve always had a soft spot for Tommy Shaw’s electrifying presence—his 1984 solo gem Girls with Guns still gets regular spins in my house. Styx, though, is a band that’s been woven into the fabric of rock history, a staple of ‘70s and ‘80s FM radio with anthems like “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade” that defined an era. With such a towering legacy, it’s tough not to measure new releases against their classic catalog. But I vowed to give this album a fair shake, approaching it with fresh ears and an open heart. Spoiler alert: I’m glad I did.
A Legacy That Rocks On
For the uninitiated, Styx formed in Chicago in 1972, rising from local bar gigs to arena-rock stardom with their blend of prog-rock theatrics, hard rock grit, and pop sensibilities. Albums like The Grand Illusion (1977) and Pieces of Eight (1978) cemented their place in rock’s pantheon, while 1983’s Kilroy Was Here took a bold, polarizing dive into concept-album territory. Despite lineup changes over the decades—most notably the departure of founding member Dennis DeYoung in 1999—the current lineup of Tommy Shaw, James “JY” Young, Lawrence Gowan, Chuck Panozzo, Ricky Phillips, Todd Sucherman, and Will Evankovich carries the torch with gusto.
Circling From Above is Styx’s 18th studio album and their third since 2017’s The Mission, a concept record that marked a creative resurgence. This new chapter builds on that momentum, delivering a sound that’s both a love letter to their golden era and a confident step forward.
The Sound: Classic Styx with a Fresh Coat of Paint
If you’re a Styx diehard, this album will hit you like a warm, nostalgic wave. Tracks like “It’s Clear” channel the band’s vintage magic, evoking the soaring melodies of Pieces of Eight and even the theatrical flair of Kilroy Was Here. I was genuinely surprised to hear echoes of the latter—a bold move, akin to Kiss dusting off vibes from their experimental Music from ‘The Elder’. The album’s sonic palette is crisp and vibrant, with production that’s polished yet punchy, letting each instrument shine. Shaw’s guitar riffs still bite, Gowan’s keyboards add a prog-rock shimmer, and Sucherman’s drumming is as dynamic as ever.
What sets Circling from Above apart is its versatility. It’s got the lighter, melodic rock that flirts with yacht-rock smoothness—think “Babe” with a modern sheen—but it doesn’t shy away from meatier riffs and intricate arrangements. Fans of classic prog might catch whiffs of Yes in the layered harmonies, while certain atmospheric moments had me swearing, I heard Alan Parsons Project sneaking into the mix. It’s a record that feels cohesive yet varied, threading a consistent theme through its 13 tracks without ever feeling repetitive.
Standout Moments and Minor Missteps
“It’s Clear” is the album’s crown jewel, a track that encapsulates Styx’s history while showcasing their current firepower. The interplay between Shaw’s vocals and Gowan’s keys is pure Styx, and the song’s anthemic chorus is bound to be a live staple. But I do wish that the guitar work would have been featured a bit more. Its there but you must listen closely.
My only gripe? The album cover. It’s got a glossy, New Age vibe that screams Yanni or a meditation app soundtrack—hardly the bold imagery you’d expect from a band known for epic sound. But don’t let the artwork deter you; even though it still looks like a Yanni record.
Why You Should Listen
Circling From Above is a testament to Styx’s enduring chemistry and willingness to evolve while staying true to their roots. It’s the kind of album that rewards longtime fans with nods to their classic sound while inviting newcomers with its accessible, polished rock. If you lean toward the mellower side of rock—think Toto or Journey with a prog twist—this record belongs in your collection.
On the Road Again
Word on the street (and confirmed via recent web searches) is that Styx is hitting the road this summer to support Circling From Above. Having caught them live multiple times, I can vouch for their electrifying performances—Shaw and Young still command the stage like seasoned rock gods, and Gowan’s energy is infectious. Expect a setlist blending new tracks with classics, and check Styx’s official website for tour dates.
Final Verdict: A Must-Listen for Rock Fans
Circling From Above is Styx at their best: nostalgic yet forward-looking, polished yet soulful. It’s an album that proves this veteran band still has plenty of gas in the tank. Pop it in, crank it up, and let Styx take you on a journey that’s out of this world.
